WPD Seek Info on Abandoned Dog in Pawtuxet Cemetery

WARWICK, RI — Warwick Police are asking the public’s help finding the persons responsible for an older abandoned dog at Pawtuxet Cemetery Sunday, Nov. 19.

The dog, found emaciated with other health problems, had to be euthanized due to the severity of its poor health,  police said, according to a WPRI 12 report. Det. Sgt. Greg Johnson said a passerby found the dog and reported the distressed animal to police.

Johnson said there were other options the dog’s owner had aside from abandoning it. “I am sure the shelter (Warwick Animal Shelter) or our ACO’s would have offered assistance if the owner were no longer able to care for the dog,” Johnson said.

Johnson is investigating the incident as part of an active animal abuse case. So far, he said, interest in the story is big, but the number of leads aren’t.

Warwick Police posted to their Facebook page with a photo of the dog, asking that anyone with information on the whereabouts of the owner(s) of the dog please contact Det. Johnson at 401-468-4261 or gregory.johnson@warwickri.gov.

“The post has generated considerable interest, but so far no new leads,” Johnson said.

Local pet care assistance and pet rehoming help

Several local services offer help caring for your pets, or if necessary, rehoming them:

Potter League – We understand that life is full of situations beyond our control, and facing the decision to rehome your pet is difficult. We are here for you whether you are looking for resources to help you keep your pet at home or are having to surrender your pet.

RISPCA – We understand that parting ways with your pet can be especially difficult and we’re committed to working with you to ensure the best possible solution for you and your pet. All animals being surrendered for adoption must be in relatively good health and not have bitten a person or another animal within the last fourteen days.

Providence Animal Rescue League (PARL) – We understand how difficult it is to make the decision to surrender your pet. In most cases, surrendering your beloved animal companion is a last resort and is a difficult and emotional experience for you and your pet. (PARL also provides numerous links to resources to address many challenges pet owners face, from behavioral issues, to cutting the cost of care, to finding pet-friendly housing.)

Author: Rob Borkowski

Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at editor@warwickpost.com with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.